N gauge models get a raw deal on the printed page, where everything is effectively the same scale. The same applies on the computer screen, of course, and the above shot of the new Bachmann/Graham Farish Class 37 appears between 3 and 4 times larger than life on my monitor, ruthlessly (and unfairly) exposing every little flaw. Given that, I think it acquits itself rather well.
N gauge modellers, at least those with a UK leaning, have always had an even rawer deal, with only one consistent manufacturer producing RTR stock, and not doing it to a very high standard at that. But with Bachmann having taken over the Graham Farish range some time ago, things are at last starting to change - revamped models have been appearing with a brand new chassis that, hopefully, marks the beginning of a whole new era.
I think I can safely say I'm impressed with this model. Not only does it look more like a Class 37 in the flesh than any of the dire 4mm offerings, but the running qualities are perfectly acceptable, too. Straight out the box it's smooth and powerful, hugely better than the performance you get from the likes of Lima. It's a little hesitant at low speed, but it doesn't stall or anything - it just seems to want to slow and stop. This may be because I'm testing it with a pure DC controller - no doubt DCC will bring it's customary improvement. It might also improve with running in, of course. Regular readers of 'Railway Modeller' magazine will be aware that even a Brio trainset with woodworm will purr along with Swiss precision after 30 minutes of careful running in. It has to be careful, mind you - I don't know if a condom is required, but then I'm one 'Shows You How' booklet short of the full set at the best of times.
While we're on the subject of all things N, have a look at the above photo which shows just how tiny a typical DCC decoder aimed at the smaller scales really is. On the Left is the Lenz LE0521A and on the right, my favourite Lenz LE1024E decoder, one that finds it's way into more of my locos than anything else. Decoders for the smaller scales can be usefully deployed in some of the smaller 4mm models, too - although only rated at 0.5 amps this is sufficient for many modern mechanisms. Personally I try not to use them if at all possible, purely because the number of function outputs is normally limited. In this age when more and more people are going overboard with lighting, the basic 2 function front/back facility that this decoder has can be limiting. This doesn't diminish it's value to N gauge modellers, of course.
Finally, a size comparison between the Bachmann/Graham Farish Class 37 next to a 7mm model built from a DJH kit - the N gauge model is about the size of it's larger sibling's bogies. Model trains the size of bogies - now there's an unsettling notion...